On April 25, 1901, New York became the first U.S. state to require license plates on motor vehicles. Early plates were often homemade and displayed the owner’s initials. The law was a response to the increasing number of automobiles on roads. License plates helped authorities identify vehicles involved in accidents or violations. Over time, standardized plates and registration systems were adopted across the country. This early law reflects how governments adjusted to the rapid spread of car travel.
